Montrose - Daily Press

Matt Hildner

Daily Press Writer

MONTROSE — One of the most famous moments in Montrose history came when President William Howard Taft dedicated the opening of the Gunnison Tunnel on Sept. 23, 1909.

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That moment may be celebrated with a centennial event two years down the road and possibly gain some sort of permanent commemoration if preliminary talks on the matter bear fruit.

Paul Zaenger, a supervisory ranger at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, raised the prospect of having the city assist with some sort of commemoration of the event at the tunnel’s west portal. Although councilors were wary of how another facility might tax the city’s parks department, they gave city staff permission to further look into the matter.

Zaenger said the Park Service is already planning to celebrate the dedication’s anniversary at the tunnel’s east portal, which sits just outside the southeastern boundary of the park in Curecanti National Recreation Area.

He said park visitors have shown a growing interest in the six-mile tunnel that diverts water from the Gunnison River into the Uncompahgre Valley.

“More and more people whether they live here locally in the community or perhaps around the world have expressed more interest in knowing about the events that brought about the Gunnison Tunnel,” he said.

Zaenger discussed two preliminary options that did not include budget estimates. The smaller version would involve some interpretive signs, possibly a trail to the west portal and less maintenance.

The more extensive option would include plans developed by a landscape architect, picnic areas, restrooms and possibly a memorial.

Initially, the city’s main contribution would come in the form of grant writing, but it might be needed later on for maintenance and ownership of the site.

Montrose Mayor Noelle Hagan praised the idea given the impacts the tunnel has had on the area, but she felt the city might not be in a position to spare the funds to construct and maintain such a site.

“I’m really concerned about stretching resources too thin,” Hagan said, although she felt it would be OK to continue talks.

“What I’m looking for is who else is stepping up to the plate and what does stepping up to the plate mean,” she said.

Zaenger and Montrose Community Development Director Kerwin Jensen said upcoming discussions about the project would include the Uncompahgre Valley Water Users Association, although the group did not have a representative on hand for the meeting.

The UVWUA operates the tunnel and regulates the distribution of water to the area.

Although she shared council’s concerns about a long-term commitment for funding and maintenance, City Manager Mary Watt did not object to having staff look into the project on a preliminary basis.

That was enough for council to have the city at least move ahead with discussions.

“This is so preliminary, I don’t think they’re looking for commitments,” Councilor Jose Abeyta “In my opinion, I would say stay involved in the planning process.”

Contact Matt Hildner via e-mail at matth@montrosepress.com

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